I founded Cheeky Wipes 16 years ago because I’ve suffered from eczema all my life. That means I know firsthand how frustrating it is to find products that don’t trigger irritation, rashes, or discomfort.
From a young age, I became extremely conscious of avoiding synthetic materials, fragrances, and harsh chemicals—all of which can be found in conventional disposable period pads. These additives don’t just cause discomfort; they can lead to allergic reactions, chafing, and even infections over time.
If you're looking for the best period pads for sensitive skin, we've rounded up some top choices to help you find the perfect match—because managing your period should never mean putting up with irritation.
The 5 Best Period Pads for Sensitive Skin
Not all period pads are created equal. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to choose products made from breathable, natural materials that avoid unnecessary chemicals. Here are five of the best options:
1. Luxury Cotton Pads - Period & Pee-Proof Day Pads (Cheeky Wipes)
Cheeky’s Luxury Cotton Period & Pee-Proof Sanitary Pads are an excellent option for those who want soft, irritation-free protection at a great price. Made from natural cotton, these absorbent pads are:
✅ Hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals
✅ Highly absorbent while remaining breathable
✅ Designed for both period and light incontinence use
These are a slim and discreet pad, and come as panty liners, regular or heavy absorbency options.
2. Cloth Period Bamboo Pads (Cheeky Wipes)
Bamboo is one of the softest and most skin-friendly materials available, which makes Cheeky’s Cloth Period Bamboo Pads a fantastic choice for anyone prone to irritation. Available in liner, day pad and night / maternity sizes, thesepads offer:
✅ Ultra-soft bamboo charcoal fleece or bamboo terry which feels smooth against the skin
✅ A breathable design that reduces the risk of chafing and rashes
✅ Long-lasting, eco-friendly reusability
These are particularly great for heavier days or overnight use, as the bamboo fabric is naturally absorbent and antibacterial.
"I want to reduce my one use plastic waste and this is a great way. They are morecomfortablethan disposable sanitary pads and easy to clean so win, win and win. The advice on the website gave me all the information I needed to make the change. The person who wrote the advice understood what I needed to know to be prepared for the change to reusable. Thanks for helping me make the change." Trustpilot Review
3. Organic Cotton Disposable Pads (Natracare)
For those who prefer disposable pads but need a gentler option, Natracare Organic Cotton Pads are a great choice and come individually wrapped. They're also cruelty free and contact 100% organic cotton. They are:
✅ Made from cellulose pulp, a more sustainable alternative than super absorbent polymers (SAPs) found in many conventional pads. The top layer is made from certified organic cotton
✅ Free from perfumes, oil based plastics, and chlorine
✅ Compostable in Industrial composting facilities
Whilst they still need to be disposed of, these pads are much less irritating than conventional disposable pads.
4. Reusable Panty Liners (Cheeky Wipes)
For those with a lighter flow or wanting something to deal with daily discharge, Cheeky’s Fearless Panty Liners offer both comfort and superior absorbency. They feature:
✅ A super soft cotton flannel top layer that prevents irritation
✅ An absorbent inner cotton core designed for all-day wear
✅ A waterproof backing to prevent leaks
These are perfect for perimenopausal spotting, little leaks or when you just want to feel fresh.
5. Minivivi Slim Tween Pads
We LOVE Minivivi slim tween pads which are hand made in the UK. They are suitable for moderate menstruation or light incontinence. It measures approx 7.5″ long, with a more narrow shape and width.
✅ Primarily designed for incontinence so are extremely high capacity yet ultra thin
✅ Earth-friendly core is a combination of organic hemp and cotton, layered to maximise capacity and minimise compression leaks
✅ Natural fabric remains breathable
These pads are anyone wanting to support a small UK business, with great advice on hand too!
The Best Incontinence Pads for Sensitive Skin
Just like period pads, incontinence pads can also cause irritation due to synthetic materials and fragrances. If you experience chafing, rashes, or discomfort, switching to reusable, skin-friendly incontinence products can help.
However before you find out more about skin friendly incontinence products, we would really recommend that you check out our Secret Whispers Kegel Weights. They're like dumbbells for your pelvic floor and recommended by healthcare professionals and pelvic floor physios. Used daily they can REALLY improve symptoms - you just pop them in whilst having a shower or brushing your teeth and wear for 5 or 10 mins to see fast improvements!
1. Cheeky Fearless Cotton Incontinence Pads
Cheeky’s Reusable Cotton Incontinence Pads are designed with sensitive skin in mind. They are:
✅ Made from soft, breathable cotton
✅ Free from chemicals, plastics, and fragrances
✅ Perfect for light to severe bladder leaks
Available in 4 sizes to cover all types of incontinence, these are a cost-effective, eco-friendly choice.
Shop Cheeky’s Reusable Incontinence Pads
"Arrived quickly. Only have 3 lightpadones for occasional sneeze and I am finding them easy to wash and dry. Maybe need a couple more for a slightly simpler life. Also bought 20 wipes and I love these." Trustpilot Review
2. Washable Bamboo XL Incontinence Pads (Cheeky Wipes)
For those looking for extra softness, Cheeky’s XL Bamboo Incontinence Pads are a great alternative. They provide:
✅ A super-soft bamboo or bamboo charcoal top layer for irritation-free wear
✅ Extra long length with wider rear area
✅ A breathable, eco-friendly design
These are ideal for anyone looking for a reusable pads for super heavy periods or more moderate incontinence.
3. TENA ProSkin Ultra Pad
If you prefer a disposable option, TENA ProSkin Ultra Pads are one of the gentler choices available. They are:
✅ Designed for sensitive skin with a soft, breathable top layer
✅ Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested
✅ Highly absorbent while remaining slim and discreet
While disposable, these pads are made with skin health in mind and are a better alternative to standard supermarket incontinence pads.
Want to learn more about switching to reusables? Check out these helpful articles:
- Can Panty Liners Cause Irritation?
- Do You Have to Wear a Pad With Period Pants?
- The Best PFAS-Free Period Underwear
Or have you still got questions? Drop us a line, nothing is TMI and we are always happy to help.
About the Author:Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include period pants,reusable period kitsand reusable sanitary pads. Both she and the rest of the leadership team are now navigating menopause, with all the joys it brings!
The Cheeky customer services team pride themselves on providing honest, friendly advice and just LOVE to chat pee, poo and periods all day long, helping people make the switch to reusables! The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.
